By CHLOE GRUSING
Editorial Editor
The semester is half over and finding the strength to finish the semester is getting harder by the day. The weather is too nice to be inside for class and summer break is just within reach. Staying motivated and keeping a strong academic performance can be extremely hard this time of year.
A student must stay motivated and finish their work, which can be very challenging. On top of classes, many students work or are participating in sports and in some cases both. Keeping one’s mental health in check is key to successfully finishing the semester.
Throughout the day checking in with yourself can be very helpful in gauging the condition of your brain. Take a step back and a deep breath and gauge your current mental state.
Positive thoughts and reinforcement are very beneficial. According to Medical News Today, self talk is defined as a person’s communication to themselves, and can be positive or negative.
The impact of self talk is extensive, and how one chooses to express themselves is important. The article, What is Positive Self Talk, outlines that negative self talk can lead to self esteem issues and higher anxiety or stress.
Discounting your abilities or downplaying your achievements can lead to a self fulfilling prophecy of negative results. Speaking to yourself in a deprecating way will only reinforce that fact in your mind, causing it to become true.
Students that practiced positive self talk before a presentation were less likely to have anxiety than their peers that did not. Before an exam tell yourself you got it, because you do. After give yourself a pat on the back for trying. It can be hard, but don’t allow yourself to go down a negative spiral.
Positive self talk is also vital for athletes. The mental aspect of sports is just as important as physical and being able to maintain composure in competition is key. It is important to stay positive and move forward, not only for yourself but also your team.
One person’s attitude can influence the entire field, so staying upbeat and ready will be more beneficial. No matter the score, positive self talk can help keep your head in the game. Cheering on your teammates and giving them positive reinforcement can also improve their game as well.
It may be easier said than done, but practicing positive self talk can only benefit you. From reducing stress to improving a person’s everyday mood, there are many ways this can be helpful to anyone.
Throughout the day, gauge how you speak to yourself. Take into account your reactions to stress and how you are processing them. If you find yourself struggling to be positive, work on replacing.
Anyone is capable of being their best self. In and out of work, sports and school strive to be more kind to yourself. If you find yourself struggling, that’s okay, just try again.
Progress is not linear, you should be proud of yourself for trying. Give yourself credit for all the things you have and will achieve. You have the opportunity to make every day a great one, so take it.
